[Needle arthroscopy in rheumatology--its role in diagnosis and therapy]

Needle arthroscopy is a new technique in rheumatology. The procedure is only marginally more invasive than a normal joint puncture, because small instruments are available. The method allows repeated interventions, e.g. synovial biopsy under visual inspection during the course of a disease. The procedure is demonstrated in detail, and the possibilities in the management of rheumatic diseases offered by needle arthroscopy are discussed.